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Kuroo woke up and found himself in the middle of nowhere. He found himself on the side of a dirt path with no memories of why or how he got there. Kuroo stood in the middle of the road, glancing left and right before making a random turn down the path.
He wasn’t even sure how far or long he had been walking but he stumbled upon a town and didn’t realize he was hungry until his stomach rumbled embarrassingly loud. He let his nose guide him, entering the town square and stared at the countless number of stalls with the smell of countless of food wafting through the air. Kuroo couldn’t contain the drools, staring at the people passing by with food in their hands.
Kuroo gulped, walking up over to a stand selling breads, licking his lips with the many selections.
“What can I get for you today?” The seller smiled, making Kuroo jumped slightly. He gulped, staring at the selection.
“I-I… I don’t know…”
“I see. How about I suggest you something?” He smiled, grabbing a small loaf and slicing it in half. “I’ll make you some beef sandwich.”
“Sandwich?” It was Kuroo’s first time hearing the name and he watched in awe at how the man was stuffing the loaf. He then drizzled on some sauce before handing it to Kuroo.
“That’ll be 25 coins.”
“What?” Kuroo blinked, he quickly felt his pocket and realized he didn’t even have any money. He gulped, sensing the man’s impatience.
“Oi kid, you either pay or you get no food.” He threatened slightly and Kuroo was about to hand the sandwich back before he saw something white in the corner of his eyes. Kuroo blinked, turning to the side at the boy in the white hood beside him.
“Sorry, he’s with me. Here you go, sir.” He murmured, handing the man some coins. The man seemingly smiled, nodding as he took the cash.
“Thank you for your purchase!” He acted as if he didn’t just threaten Kuroo seconds ago. He then turned to his savior, seeing the golden eyes scanning him from top to bottom.
“You’re not from here, are you?”
Kuroo shook his head.
“Why are you traveling alone? Where are your parents?”
Kuroo stared at the sandwich in his hand. “I… I don’t know…” He really couldn’t remember.
“F-Follow me…” The boy murmured, tugging onto his sleeve. “I’ll take you to the town’s elder.”
Kuroo flinched, moving back slightly. “A-Are you turning me in?”
“No… I just thought… If you want to stay here, you should go see the elder.” He murmured, avoiding Kuroo’s eyes. “Don’t worry. He’s a kind man.” For some reason, Kuroo felt like he could trust the boy and nodded, letting him lead Kuroo away.
Meeting Nekomata was scary for Kuroo at first. He kept hiding behind the white hooded boy, staring at the man in front of him. But he only smiled, reassuring Kuroo that he meant no harm and would promise Kuroo with a place to stay. He had accepted Kuroo without much questions, actually taking him in under his wings.
“H-He’s gone…” Kuroo watched the hooded boy ran off as soon as Nekomata had accepted Kuroo into his home. The old man chuckled, walking up to glance out the window. “I didn’t even get his name…”
“I’ll take you to his home if you wished to see him again.” He patted onto his back. “You should eat and get clean up first.”
“Tetsurou…”
“Pardon?”
“You can call me Tetsurou…”
Kuroo followed Nekomata, finishing his sandwich and got a nice shower. He stared at the mirror quietly, examining the black clothes. He wasn’t really sure why but for some reason, Kuroo felt even more at home here than before. He couldn’t even remember his origin but one thing was certain for Kuroo; and that he wished he would never leave this place and would rather call this his home.
“That boy that brought you here was Kenma.” Kuroo followed Nekomata outside, “I was pleasantly surprised to see he actually went out of his way to speak to someone and bring you to me. Usually, he’s a very shy one.” He smiled, turning to the young boy. “Maybe he saw something special in you.”
“I doubt it… I’m just a nobody with no memories…”
Kuroo grunted at the ruffling of his hair, looking up at the elder. “I doubt it, Tetsurou. I can tell from a quick glance, that you’ll grow up into a fine young man.” Kuroo then spotted multiple children running around, screaming and shouting. “Yaku! Kai!” He called over the two boys and they immediately stopped, turning around.
“Nekomata-san! Hello!” The two boys ran over, bowing down and Nekomata nodded.
“You two are as energetic as always, I see.” Nekomata chuckled, patting onto Kuroo, “This is Kuroo Tetsurou, I just took him in today and I would like to ask you two a favor.”
“E-Eh?” Kuroo widened his eyes, looking up at the old man. Being in a new place was one thing, but meeting new people? Kuroo had wish he didn’t ask Nekomata to bring him out to see Kenma again.
Sensing his anxiousness, Nekomata smiled at him. “Don’t worry, these two are very nice people. I’m sure you three will hit right off.” Nekomata reassured the boy, “You three are the same age after all.”
“Eh… Nice to meet you, Kuroo!” The short messy haired grinned, “I’m Yaku Morisuke! And this is Kai Nobuyuki.”
“Nice to meet you.” Kai smiled and Kuroo nodded slowly.
“Mind if you show Tetsurou here to Kenma’s house?”
“Eh, Kenma’s?” Yaku blinked, “That’s fine. But why?”
“Kenma was the one who found Tetsurou, after all. He would like to go see him again to say his thank you.”
The two boys hummed, nodding.
“Maybe get to know them too, Tetsurou. I’m sure having friends will surely make you feel more at home here.”
Kuroo nodded slowly and followed the two boys. They could sense the uneasiness from the new kid and was thinking of a way to make him relax.
“You know,” Kuroo turned his head to Yaku, “I know Nekomata-san can say some weird stuff, but you should always trust him. He is the greatest mage in this world, after all!”
“He’s a mage?” Kuroo blinked, he did not know that. But for some reason, hearing Yaku revealing that information, it kind of made sense.
“People say he can see the future but who knows, maybe that is a possibility.” Kai added, “He is also looking for a successor right now. Maybe you could try?”
“But I don’t think I have magic… I don’t even know my origin…” Kuroo lowered his gaze to the ground and the walk became silent after that. They quickly arrived at Kenma’s house and Kuroo waited anxiously as Yaku and Kai knocked on the door, talking to the parents.
“N-Not home?” Kuroo felt defeated and his mood suddenly soured. He had wanted to meet the boy again but hearing those two words from the boy’s parents’ mouths was not something Kuroo had expected.
“Hey, don’t worry!” Yaku pat onto his back, “We can try again later. Do you want us to show you around town? We can try to find Kenma on the way.”
“No thanks… I’m kind of tired so I’ll just go back to Nekomata-san.” Kuroo smiled weakly before walking away. He had hoped he remember the way anyway but he was really drained from all the social interactions in this new place.
Kuroo dragged his feet down the path, trying to remember the way home. But suddenly, as if it was a sixth sense, Kuroo stopped in the middle of an intersection and turned to the path where he could see the river flowing. He took a turn and walked down the road slowly, glancing immediately to his left and he saw a slightly worn dirt paths into the forest. As if someone was calling him, Kuroo followed the faint path and was pleasantly surprised to find a clearing in the middle of the forest. He gasped slightly, looking around.
The clearing was small, so it was well hidden but it was plenty if people just wanted some alone time. Kuroo looked around and quickly spotted a familiar white hooded figure sitting on top of a large rock situated beside the running river, his small finger lifting and lowering, controlling droplets of waters in front of him.
“Y-You’re a mage?” Kuroo couldn’t help but to gasp and the hooded boy flinch, dropping the droplets and turned to Kuroo, his eyes full of fear. “S-Sorry…”
“You’re…” Kenma seemingly relaxed a bit after recognizing the boy, “you’re that boy from the square…”
“Ah… Um, Kuroo Tetsurou.” He noticed the way Kenma tilted his head, his eye raised. “That’s my name.”
“You remember your name?”
“That’s the only thing I remember…” He rubbed his neck, “You’re… Nekomata-san said your name is Kenma?”
Kenma nodded slowly, “Kozume Kenma…” He then tilted his head, “how did you find this place?”
“Not sure. I was actually trying to look for you, but your parents said you went out.” Kuroo murmured, “And then I just… I felt like something was calling me so I just followed the paths and here I am.”
Kenma snorted slightly, looking at him. “You’re an interesting boy, Kuro.”
“Eh? Kuro?” Kenma immediately blushed, turning red slightly.
“You’re… You wear black and all… I just thought-“ Kenma murmured and Kuroo then laughed, shaking his head.
“It’s fine if you wanted to call me Kuro.” He beamed.
“Then you can call me Kenma.”
Kenma waved Kuroo over, showing him the magic he was practicing and explained to him how this place was his safe haven from the town and people. The two surprisingly hit it right off and they didn’t go home until the sun had set. Promising they can meet up again tomorrow, Kuroo got back home happier than he was when he left the house.
Over time, Kuroo and Kenma got even closer and Kenma had even encouraged Kuroo to try learning magic. Kuroo also met Kai and Yaku again and even made friends with them but he would still very much prefer to be with Kenma. Nekomata could see how Kuroo was slowly breaking out of his shell as time went on and was glad to see he was making himself right at home in Nekoma.
“You went to a dungeon today?” Kenma was shock, looking up from his spell book and at the boy covered in dirt and scratches.
“Yeah! With Yaku and Kai!” Kuroo smirked, “and I found something really cool!” He hopped over to the large rock, shoving a blue stone into Kenma’s face.
“It’s a… Gem?”
“A calling stone.” Kuroo corrected, placing it into Kenma’s hands. “And this is yours.”
“W-What? You found it so it’s yours, isn’t it?” Kenma frowned, pushing it back but it was pushed right back. Curse Kuroo and his abnormally strong strength.
“I got it for you, Kenma!” Kuroo huffed, “I almost died making it.”
“Making?”
Kuroo then reached for his pocket, pulling out a corresponding blue orb. “It’s our calling stone! We can use this to contact each other. Just use a bit of mana and it’ll work.”
“And that’s all there it to it?”
Kuroo huffed, disappointed not to see Kenma’s lack of reaction. “I mean, you can use it for other stuff. I made this into a magical orb so I can use magic from it as well…”
“That’s fine… If I can call you using this, I guess it’s useful enough…” Kenma shrugged, “but putting it into my pocket is a bit much…”
“I knew you’d be picky on how you would want to carry this,” Kuroo then revealed a bag behind his robe. The red magical robe on Kuroo was a new addition to his outfit, Kenma had noted. Kuroo had been working hard on completing Nekomata’s quests and so, he was rewarded with the red fire-resistant robe. Kenma had to admit, red was a good look on Kuroo. Especially when he was sporting black from head to toe. “Tada!” Kuroo revealed a large yellow necklace with an empty hole perfect for the stone he had just gifted Kenma.
“A necklace…?”
“Let me.” Kuroo jumped onto the stone and got behind Kenma. He then put the chain around Kenma’s neck and he could hear the clip being placed behind him. Kuroo quickly got around Kenma, staring at the necklace before taking the stone from Kenma, putting in in.
Kenma glanced down, reaching his hand up to feel the yellow metal and the stone.
“S-So?” Kuroo gulped, noticeably nervous and Kenma looked up. Kuroo covered his mouth, feeling his cheeks and ears burn.
“How do I look?”
“R-Really good…” Kuroo muffled into his hand and it was Kenma’s turn to look away, trying to hide his blush behind his hair.
They spent the rest of the day like usual, but this time, Kuroo would practice magic along with Kenma. It had been almost 10 years since Kuroo was taken in and Kenma had to admit, he had grown a lot; from the shy boy to a now, much more confident young man. Kuroo was turning 18 soon and he would soon get to decide what role he would want in the village. Kenma was hoping Kuroo would choose to be Nekomata’s successor and be a mage.
After making sure Kenma got inside his home safely, Kuroo turned his heels to head back home. He greeted the villagers who recognized him but something was off. He could feel the growing itchiness on both sides of his head. He reached up to scratch but bumped onto something solid. Kuroo immediately ran home and straight towards the mirrors. He brushed his hair to the side and stared at the black bump on his head. Kuroo turned, checking the other side and was met with the identical black bump.
‘Should I go see Nekomata-san…’ He debated mentally, groaning but decided against it. Maybe it’ll go away overnight and so he got dinner ready.
Later that night, Kuroo tossed and turned, struggling to sleep. A sudden sharp pain made Kuroo scream and he immediately jolted up, accidentally releasing a huge blast into the wall. But the destruction was ignored as he held onto his head, on the spots where the bumps were hours before. Instead of bumps, Kuroo felt that they had grown longer, sturdier and even pointier. He ran out of bed and towards the mirror, staring in shock at how now his eyes were glowing red in the dark and two, very obvious horns now stood proudly on his head.
‘This can’t be happening…’ Kuroo looked around and at the hole on the wall. Suddenly feeling like he was 10 years ago, Kuroo then ran out and off into the night. He dodged the concerned villagers that were waking up and slowly crowding his destroyed house but Kuroo kept going until he was sure he had surpassed the Nekoma vicinity.
I’m sorry Kenma.
When Kenma woke up the following day, he was oblivious to the incident. But his peaceful morning was interrupted when loud banging erupted on his door. He watched his mother opening the door to see who it was and Yamamoto’s voice was something Kenma did not want to hear first thing in the morning.
“Oi Kenma! There’s big news!”
“What can be bigger than your voice?” The mage dragged his feet over to the fighter but concern grew the moment he saw the panic look in Yamamoto’s eyes. He didn’t let Yamamoto start before he pushed him outside and walked down the road towards Kuroo’s house, listening quietly.
“Kuroo-san is gone.” Kenma stopped in front of the destroyed home, his heart dropped. Half of Kuroo’s house was destroyed and Kema could see Yaku and Kai were examining the wreckage. “Seems like it happened in the middle of the night. But we weren’t informed of whose house it was until Nekomata-san called me to summon you.”
“What happened?” Kenma walked over to the rubble, applying his hand on the destroyed wall. ‘Fire magic.’
“Seems like Kuroo was attacked?” Yaku crossed his arms, “but it doesn’t look like a fight broke out. The other half of his house doesn’t show signs of confrontations.”
“Kuroo’s also strong enough to be weary of ambushes too. It’d be unusual if someone managed to get to Kuroo without him noticing.” Kai added, turning to Kenma. “You were the last person to be with him, right Kenma? Was he acting strange?”
“N-No…” Kenma shook his head. He quickly excused himself and walked away, leaving everyone confused. Kenma sped walk through town and towards his secret hiding spot, part of him wished that Kuroo was alright and safe and that if he entered the clearing, he would be there.
But Kenma was met with emptiness. He looked around, hoping Kuroo was just playing a cruel joke but he then remembered the gift he got yesterday. His hand raised up to the stone around his neck, transferring his magic and watched the way it glowed.
“Kuro…?” His voice cracked slightly as he whispered onto the stone. “Please come back to me.”
Kuroo sat quietly on the windowsill, his leg dangling off the edge as he stared out into the horizon. His lips sealed tightly in a straight line while his magical orb floated besides him. It had already been a few months since the day Kuroo had discovered he was a demon and he ran away from Nekoma. He wasn’t sure why. Maybe it was fear that got him to do it. He glanced at the orb, watching it flicker and Kenma’s soft voice emitting from it. They were his plea, his pleas of Kuroo’s answer, of his safe return.
“I’m really sorry…” How he yearned for the mage’s presence and voice. But Kuroo couldn’t return now. Especially when it was very much obvious that he’s a demon now. The sound of the door opening made Kuroo jumped slightly but he kept his gaze out.
“Kuro-chan-” The voice sounded too chirpy for Kuroo’s liking but he immediately put his arm back, blasting a fire orb towards the voice but it was easily blocked.
“Don’t you dare call me that!” Kuroo immediately spat, his eyes glow red as he turned to the demon approaching him. It really made him wonder how this man could hold so much power and authority.
“No need to get angry, what’s wrong with ‘Kuro-chan’?” He then dodged another incoming blast, letting it hit onto the castle wall. He hummed, looking at the hole it created as the blast continued to zip through the horizon. “Alright, I’m sorry. I won’t call you that again if it makes you so pissed.” He then smiled; his mood changed almost 180. “But let’s go have some fun!”
Kuroo sighed, hating how his mood changed too quickly, turning back to the view, “Do you have that much fun playing around and pissing Iwaizumi off that much, Oikawa.” Kuroo glanced back at the demon, earning a hum from Oikawa. “You keep targeting the same people, switch up your victims for once.”
“But they’re weak. There’s no fun in watching weaklings die a bit too quickly.” He hummed, teleporting to be in front of Kuroo as he floated midair. “It’s fun seeing Iwa-chan pissed off.” He winked, making Kuroo rolled his eyes.
“You’re a real strange Demon King if I’ve ever seen one.” Kuroo sighed.
“And yet you came to me to seek for the truth, didn’t you?” He turned serious, “And you can do that by go and attack Iwa-chan and his little group of heroes wannabe. I think it’s time to show off my little Black Wizard.”
“I’m only working for you until I find the truth.” Kuroo grumbled, pushing himself off the windowsill, letting himself float besides Oikawa. “Do you want me to capture them?”
“Do whatever you see fit. Just make sure to stop them from trying to reach this castle. Maybe send them to another dungeon.” He hummed, “pretty sure they don’t have any magic users so we still have the upper hand.”
“If I were Iwaizumi, I’d be pissed off too.” Kuroo then flew off, ignoring the well wishes from the Demon King. Working for Oikawa had made him learnt two things: Oikawa wasn’t a very intimidating king 99% of the time and he really loved annoying Iwaizumi from Aoba Johsai. Maybe a bit too much.
Kenma’s attempts at calling Kuroo stopped after 2 years. But every night, Kuroo would still look up at the moon, his orb in hand and wished Kenma was looking up at the moon too. He wondered if Kenma had successfully become Nekomata’s successor as the White Mage. The demon was confident that Kenma did.
“Shimizu’s servants just told me that Iwa-chan’s group just got a new member.” Oikawa waltzed into Kuroo’s spell room, plopping down onto a sofa and glanced over at Kuroo.
“Should I care?” Kuroo stared at the cauldron in front of him before back at the spell book on the bookstand. “If you want to have fun with Iwaizumi again then go ahead.”
Oikawa reached for a random book on the shelf behind him, “I heard it’s a powerful mage. They call him the White Mage, I believe.” Oikawa hummed, flipping through the book mindlessly. “Wouldn’t it be fun if you test out his power? Dark Wizard versus White Mage!”
“I’m not battling some randos just for your entertainment, your highness.” Kuroo scoffed. “Besides, go away, I’m trying to mix potions, here.”
“But isn’t it a good way to test your strength, Kuroo?” Oikawa turned around, grinning as he looked at the succumbs standing by the door. “Nishinoya and Tanaka told me he’s the successor of the legendary Cat Mage in Nekoma.”
Upon hearing that line, Kuroo accidentally dropped a vile into the cauldron and the reaction was immediately. The content immediately spewed out, causing a huge explosion.
“I am not cleaning this up!” Oikawa shouted through the smoke.
Kuroo coughed, trying to clear the smoke as he squinted his eyes open, noticing a portal had opened up in front of him.
“Seems like you’ve finally grown up, Tetsurou.” The voice appeared from inside the portal, echoing the room.
“Aside from Oikawa, I doubt Shimizu and her servants will care if we attack them. Those demons don’t really work under him.” Iwaizumi concluded, straightening his back up a bit, “however, we still have quite the threat that forced my troop to stop our journey 3 years ago. He introduced himself as Oikawa’s aid, his right-hand man.”
“A-Another demon?” Hinata gulped, unconsciously shifting over to the robed mage besides him.
“I had to spend 3 years recovering and planning because of him. Seems like this demon wizard’s magic is as strong as Oikawa, even more if he was holding back last time.” He continued, “that’s why we recruited you, Kozume. I heard of your achievements. I am confident you will be the key to our victory.”
Kenma lowered his head, letting his hair curtain his face, “I don’t do much… Those were just my friends being stupid.”
“But you are the successor to the great Cat Mage, Kenma!” Hinata gasped, “I think that’s really cool!”
“It’s not something so amazing.” Kenma sighed, “but I’m surprised the great Knight from Aoba Johsai wanted to recruit me.”
“Because I believe in your power.”
“Iwaizumi-san, what is his name?”
“The Dark Wizard, Kuroo Tetsurou.” Kenma felt his heart drop at the reveal. The pain he had finally managed to lock deep inside his heart suddenly resurfaced. The painful memory of losing his best friend, of his pleas all came back to him. Kenma leaned onto his staff, his hold tightened as he felt tears streaking down his eyes.
“K-Kenma?” Hinata noticed the slight change, “Kenma, are you ok?”
His concerns fell on deaf ears as Kenma stared at the ground. He had not expected to hear his name again. But to hear it after 3 years at the revelation that he turned into a demon? Kenma suddenly wanted to run away and go back to Nekoma. To the safe haven. To pretend he didn’t hear it.
Kenma signed up for the first night shift to gain some time alone after the news. He was obviously shock to learn not only where his childhood friend had disappeared to, but to now know that he’s an enemy? And was turned into a demon? It was truly too much for Kenma to handle. He reached his hand up and feel the stone resting against him.
“Kuro…” He murmured lowly, “please tell me you’re not an enemy.” All he could do know was to pray before preparing for the long journey ahead.
Kenma had suggested they’d go through the Forest of the Lost Paths for the quickest way to the Demon Castle. Obviously, everyone shot him down almost immediately. There was a reason why the forest got its name. Just one wrong move and they’d be lost for eternity.
“I’m a mage for a reason, you know.” Kenma sighed, murmuring something under his breath and a ray of light then shone from the cat eyes on his staff, beaming in a straight line in one direction. “If we just follow the light, we’ll get there no problem.”
“You’re really amazing, Kenma!” Hinata gasped in awe, following the mage. The forest was huge and their journey took a while. Oikawa sending out minions to stop them also delayed their plans but luckily, they got through. But as soon as they had stepped out onto the forest, they were greeted with a blast of fire. Kenma was quick enough to form a barrier around the group, blocking the fire.
“Seems like the Demon King showed himself. Saves us the trouble.” Iwaizumi growled, pulling out his sword. He watched as Oikawa descended from the air, standing in front of them with a grin.
“I was just simply testing out your little mage friend. I got to say, you do live up to your name.” Oikawa nodded, raising his hand as first burst alive. “But I’ll have to stop your journey here, Iwa-chan, Tobio-chan.”
“I won’t let you do that, Oikawa! I’m finally going to bring you back home where you belong!” Iwaizumi declared as they all got into position. Kenma scanned the area, not spotting the person he was looking for before looking at Oikawa. Suddenly, Oikawa hurled a huge boulder towards them and the battle erupted.
Kenma tried his best to steer clear, knowing Oikawa was definitely none of his business. But he tried to be helpful by healing his comrades anyway. Suddenly, his calling stone then shone brightly.
“Kenma…” The voice Kenma yearned for the past 3 years rung in his head loud and clear. Kenma froze, reaching up for the stone as he tried to contact Kuroo again, noticing the light diming.
“K-Kuro? Where are you?”
He watched in horror as the stone darkened. Concern filled his guts and Kenma quickly pointed his staff at Oikawa, forming multiple light beams and blasted them towards Oikawa. Iwaizumi, Hinata and Aone jumped back, dodging the beams with Oikawa forming a barrier to block.
“Pudding-chan is finally joining the fight?” Oikawa turned to where Kenma was but noticed his robe on the ground. “What?” He immediately turned around, seeing Kenma had teleported behind him, a huge water orb forming on his palms.
“It really is unfortunate you demons’ primary element is fire…” He murmured, flicking the orb and it absorbed Oikawa inside.
“It was that easy?” Kageyama couldn’t believe his eyes as Oikawa struggled to form magic to break free. Kenma sighed, lifting his finger to call his robe over while the group surrounded the water orb, poking it to see if it would pop.
Kenma put his robe back on, settling the necklace in place before pulling his hood up. He walked over to water balloon and pointed his staff at Oikawa.
“Now you’re going to tell me where Kuro is.”
“What?” Oikawa blinked, “You’re looking for Kuroo-chan?”
“Tell me where he is, Oikawa.” Kenma threatened and the cat eyes of his staff glowed, “or I’m not letting Iwaizumi-san bring you back alive.” Hinata gulped, stepping back slightly in fear. In his short few weeks of knowing Kenma, he definitely did not expect to see Kenma this angry or ticked off.
“Sorry pudding-chan. But I don’t think you can even get to where Kuroo-chan is even if you know his location.” Oikawa sung, making himself comfortable inside the bubble. “Kuroo-chan was taken to the demon realm.”
“The what?”
“What? We have a world where we’re from too, you know” Oikawa hummed, “who would have known, I was commanding the Demon Goddess’ son around.” Kenma felt his world drop the more he listened to Oikawa. He felt like a joke. It sounded like a joke. How in the world could Kuroo be a demon? And the son of the Demon Goddess? It really felt like this was biggest prank the world was playing on Kenma right now.
“Why is he back in the Demon Realm?” Kenma was thankful he was not the only one who was curious.
“Why else? He’s a big boy now. The Goddess is going to make him her successor and become the Demon Overlord.”
The bubble burst without any warning and Oikawa had to winced at his landing. He cursed at how the water had soaked him wet, disabling him from using his magic but he was suddenly yanked by the collar.
“Show me how to get there.” Kenma demanded.
“A fragile mage like you won’t be able to handle Purgatory, you know.” Oikawa grinned, “The Demon Magic there is no joke. You’ll burn alive the moment you step foot in it.”
“I’ll take my chances.”
Oikawa laughed, nodding as he raised his hands up in defeat. “Alright, I’ll take you there. But whatever happens to you is not my responsibility.”
Kenma agreed, letting Oikawa go watched as Oikawa pulled out a small bead. After murmuring some spells, he threw the bead far away and watch smoke cloud formed before a crack in space was seen. Before they were even ready for it, a huge heat wave blasted through the crack and Kenma truly felt like he was being baked alive the moment the crack appeared. But he stood his ground, enchanting fire proof spells on him and his comrades as the portal opened further.
“The portal will close the moment you step in! But you can get out pretty easily from the other side if you find the door!” Oikawa shouted from behind. Kenma took a mental note before running in towards the portal, ignoring the calls and pleas to stop from Hinata.
The moment Kenma stepped into the Demon Realm, his skin felt like it had burst in flames. Even with his fire-proof spell, the heat was no joke and Kenma could see black smoke rising from his robe. Kenma really didn’t have much time before the fire of Purgatory devoured him so he immediately casted a tracking spell to guide him to Kuroo.
He couldn’t believe Oikawa’s story at all. During their 10 years of friendship, Kenma could not see Kuroo as the cruel demon that would harm innocent people. He never even had horns to begin with. How was he supposed to believe those flaming lies? If he wanted to know the truth, he would only accept it if it was from Kuroo Tetsurou’s mouth.
Kenma’s staff pointed Kenma towards a large door and Kenma squeezed through the slight crack. The moment he entered, a loud thud could be heard followed by a low and pained groan. Kenma whipped his head around, frozen on the spot as the pressure of seeing the Demon Goddess overwhelmed all of his senses. She was at least 20 times, no, probably 50 times bigger than a regular human being. And her magic reeked throughout the whole room, making Kenma submit to her overwhelming presence.
“How many times do I have to tell you again, Tetsurou. Your body belongs to me! You were supposed to be my successor!” Her voice echoed the chamber and Kenma looked in front of him, watching the body on the ground slowly pushing himself up. He was shaking and from where Kenma could see, his magical robe was torn and he looked very much beaten. Maybe a few broken bones wouldn’t be so surprising.
“I-I don’t want to be a monster like you.”
“That is no way to address to your own mother!” Black tendrils shot out around the room, yanking Kuroo up harshly and a black dome spread from the top, engulfing Kuroo in completely like a cocoon. Kenma could tell from a glance that if he were to be trapped inside it, he’ll be burn alive. No magic in his arsenal would save him from that.
He watched how Kuroo was spat out from the cocoon, blasting up high into the sky before falling down with a loud thud. Kuroo’s body bounced further away than when he was last seen before, falling limp as he coughed violently. “Why won’t you submit to me, Tetsurou? You were supposed to be the new ruler! Your heart belongs to me! Not to that puny human mage!”
“I-I never considered you my mother…” Kuroo hissed, his voice ragged as he pushed himself up weakly. “W-What kind of mother threw her child to survive all alone when he was still a kid? This is not my home… Nekoma is!” He stood up weakly, “and you have no rights to call Kenma like that!”
“So Kenma is his name?” She growled, “Maybe if I kill him, you’ll finally submit to my wish!” She pointed towards the door and Kuroo widened his eyes. When he turned around, he spotted the white robe from afar.
“Kenma!” He immediately dashed towards the mage, seeing black tendrils charging for Kenma. Kuroo then pushed Kenma to the side, letting the tendrils pierced him.
“Oi Kuro!” Kuroo’s body fell down.
“D-Don’t worry… I learnt something interesting after I knew I was a demon…” Kuroo grinned weakly, getting on his knees as the puncture wounds closed.
“You can regenerate…” Kenma finished his sentence and Kuroo smiled, nodding.
“I did not expect to find you here, Kenma. I’m surprised you found a way here.” Kuroo turned to his best friend, smiling fondly at the mage.
“I had to force Oikawa to spill your location… You called for me, Kuro.”
“I-I did?”
“Enough chit chats!” The two turned back to the Goddess. She then stood up, her figure shadowing the two. “I can’t believe a rat managed to slip into my realm.” She raised her hand, “But what’s more disappointing was to see my own flesh and blood use his body to protect a human instead of submitting to me!”
“My heart knows where it belongs.” Kuroo put Kenma behind him, “And I will never let you hurt him! Even if it meant that I have to destroy you!”
“You know you can’t even lay a finger on her.” Kuroo can’t help but to laugh at Kenma’s remark. But it was true. Kuroo was simply too weak and powerless to challenge his mother and overthrow her. And in this situation, all Kuroo could do was to withstand her attacks and hope his regeneration could keep up. But the possibility of them dying right here was very high.
“Can you form your magic?”
“My water spells evaporate the moment I spawn them.”
“That’s Purgatory for you.” Kuroo snickered, turning up to his mother. “So? Will you kill us?” They slowly backed down until Kenma was sure they hit the wall. Or he assumed so. He glanced at Kuroo and back at the Demon Goddess.
“Going back to taunts now? You should really learn how to respect your own mother.” The fire around them suddenly became hotter for Kenma and he could really feel his skin slowly being burnt away.
“No thanks. I was just saying it to buy some time!” Kuroo grinned, raising his magical orb and quickly emitted a huge flash of light. The moment the Goddess screeched from the bright light, Kenma immediately swung his staff, creating a tear behind them and the two immediately fell back.
Both of them had to squint at how bright the other side was, but Kenma quickly recovered and sat up. He quickly murmured spells, forming multiple water spheres and sent them towards the portal to stop the fire from Purgatory to enter. Kuroo then raised up his orb, watching how it shone before the portal slowly close. The frustrated scream from the Goddess was the last thing both of them heard before the portal shut completely, disappearing as if nothing was there before.
“What did you do?”
“I placed a seal…” Kuroo then groaned, falling back onto the ground as the pain finally registered in his brain. The demon felt like screaming or crying, but those emotions couldn’t really describe the pain he was going through. He could feel the broken bones, the unhealed punctures all over his body and Kuroo really wished he could perish.
Kuroo flinched slightly, sensing warmth suddenly spreading throughout his whole body, “You’re such a big baby…” He looked up at the mage as he worked his magic to heal him. But Kuroo used those time to finally scan Kenma from top to bottom, how he had changed so much in the three years. His hair had grown longer and his yellow hair was now only visible on his tip. He had matured so much but Kuroo could see the most change in his eyes. Those gaze that went through so much.
“I’m sorry…”
Kenma looked up to connect their gaze. “What for?”
“For leaving…”
“You better.” He murmured, “why?”
“I was afraid.” Kuroo pushed himself to sit up, turning to the White Mage. “That night… On that night when my horns grew, I was so afraid. I didn’t want to accidentally hurt any of you so I left. I was planning to just wander this world but I met Oikawa and he took me in, teach me the ropes of demon magic.”
“But that doesn’t mean you can leave without telling me, Kuro.” Kenma clutched onto his robe tightly. Kuroo looked over, shifting his position so he was sitting face to face with Kenma.
“I know… And I’m sorry.” Kuroo reached for his hands, rubbing them softly. “And I’m sorry for everything I made you went through… Those pleas on the calling stone… I heard it all. But I was really afraid. That if you knew I was a monster, you’d find me disgusting.”
“But your heart still called out for me anyway.” Kuroo looked up at him, scanning how burnt his magical robe had become. How the visible burns on Kenma’s skin looked painful but the mage was focusing on the demon instead. “So was it true?”
“What is?”
“What the Demon Goddess said. That your heart belonged to me…”
Kuroo immediately blushed, lowering his head and nodded lightly. “That’s why I was rejected by her magic. If I haven’t given my heart to you, I’d surely would get cocooned in like a pupa, absorb her magic and become the overlord.” He murmured, “But… I obviously didn’t… And she was quite mad.”
Kenma hummed, looking at their intertwined hands before smiling lightly. “I see… I’m happy.”
“What?” Kuroo whipped his head up.
“I’m happy that you like me.” Kenma finished but flinched when Kuroo raised his hand to cup his face instead.
“I don’t just like you, Kenma.” He shook his head before taking a deep breath. “Kozume Kenma. I am in love with you!” His confession echoed their surrounding and it was nothing but silence, aside from the wind breezing by. But Kuroo could tell Kenma was slowly turning red and the mage leaned forward, resting his head against Kuroo’s chest.
“Stupid. Don’t just shout that aloud.” He grumbled, “but I guess…” Kuroo leaned down a bit more to hear him clearer. “Me too…”
“At least say it directly!” Kuroo laughed.
After making sure his burns had been healed, the two made their journey back to Nekoma. Kenma had realized they weren’t far from where Kenma had originally left but at least Iwaizumi and his troop was gone. They walked through the Forest of Lost Paths, thankful for Kenma’s navigation and made it out quickly. But the closer they get to Nekoma, the more it became obvious to Kenma that Kuroo was nervous.
“No one will hate you for leaving us, Kuro.” He leaned onto the demon, reaching for his hand and intertwined them.
Kuroo returned the hold, a small smile on his face. “But I’m a monster now…” He laughed dryly.
“No you are not. You are family.” Kenma corrected but could still see his uneasiness. “Don’t worry…” They could see the entrance gate to Nekoma and Kuroo really had to ground himself. He tightened their hold and walked through the village.
The moment people saw them, villagers were shouting and welcoming Kenma back. But they immediately stopped and turned to whisper at each other, pointing at Kuroo. They had recognized Kuroo thanks to his signature red robe and strange hair. But they were definitely intrigued by the horns on his head.
“He’s a demon!”
“He’s been turned into a demon!”
“He sold his soul to the demons.”
Kuroo could hear them whispering but a small tug on their intertwined hands reminded Kuroo that Kenma would be there for him. They could spot Nekomata’s house in front of them but did not expect a welcoming party.
“Kenma! You’re alive!” Yamamoto beamed widely and Kenma scrunched up his nose.
“Have more faith in me.”
“No can do when we know you slack off at any given opportunity.” He shook his head, “I can’t believe you still managed to become Nekomata-san’s successor.”
“And I can see you brought someone home.” Kai smiled and Kenma had a hunch he knew all along. Kuroo lowered his gaze, rubbing his neck nervously.
“I-I’m so-“
“Do you think sorry would work?” Yaku shouted, kicking him harshly as Kuroo yelped. Kuroo took a few tumbles forwards, hissing at the pain coursing through his body.
“Oi Yakkun! Do you have to kick that hard?” He rubbed the spot but was taken aback at the teary eyes from Yaku. “O-Oi, why are you-“
“You know you worried us?” Yaku hissed, trying his best to contain his tears. “When you disappeared that day, we were all so worried! Did you know how much pain you caused to our precious mage?” He grabbed onto Kuroo’s collar, shaking him. The demon was really impressed with how much strength this tiny man possessed. “Did you know how much pain Kenma went through?”
Kai walked over, releasing Yaku’s hold, “Yaku, that’s enough.”
“Do you not see this stupid thing on my head?” Kuroo tried to fight back but he couldn’t find his voice. “I-I’m a monster now.”
“Monster? All I see in front of me right now is your stupid rooster head. I can’t believe even after 3 years, you didn’t tame it!” Yaku scoffed, pushing him away. “But at least you’re sporting horns now. Guess that fits.”
“I’m a demon, Yaku! A Demon!” Kuroo couldn’t believe he had to spell it out.
“So?” Was definitely not the answer he had expected. Kuroo was taken aback, blinking.
“Kuroo, demons or not, you’re still our friend and leader.” Kai smiled, “Knowing you’re a demon doesn’t change our connection.”
Kuroo felt himself teared up and he immediately hid his face behind his arm, nodding weakly. The then felt a soft pat on his back and he turned around, surprised to see Nekomata standing behind him with a fond smile on his face.
“Welcome home, Tetsurou.”